Greek Spaghetti with Tomatoes

This Mediterranean-inspired spaghetti salad brings together the vibrant flavors of Greece in a refreshing pasta dish perfect for warm weather gatherings. The combination of crisp vegetables, briny olives, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs transforms ordinary pasta into a culinary escape to the Greek islands.

I first created this Greek spaghetti salad for a neighborhood block party where I needed something that could sit out without spoiling. It was such a hit that it's now requested at every summer gathering, and I've perfected the balance of flavors over dozens of iterations.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti: Provides the hearty base; use good quality pasta that holds its texture when chilled
• Cherry tomatoes: Deliver sweet bursts of flavor; select ripe ones with vibrant color
• Cucumber: Adds refreshing crunch; English varieties have fewer seeds
• Bell peppers: Bring sweet crispness; choose firm ones with glossy skin
• Red onion: Provides sharp flavor complexity; soak in cold water briefly to mellow if desired
• Kalamata olives: Contribute rich brininess; authentic Greek varieties offer the best flavor
• Feta cheese: Adds creamy tanginess; traditional Greek feta made from sheep's milk is ideal
• Fresh herbs: Brighten the entire dish; use the freshest you can find
• Extra virgin olive oil: Creates a silky dressing; invest in a good quality bottle
• Red wine vinegar: Balances with acidity; authentic Greek varieties have a mellow flavor
• Garlic: Infuses aromatic depth; fresh cloves yield the best result
• Dried oregano: Adds classic Greek flavor; crush between your fingers to release oils
• Seasonings: Enhance and balance the dish; adjust to your preference

Step-by-Step Instructions

Perfect Pasta:

Cook spaghetti in heavily salted water until just al dente (about 9 minutes or according to package directions). This is crucial as the pasta will continue to absorb the dressing. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water until completely cool to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Toss with a small amount of olive oil if not using immediately.

Vegetable Preparation:

Prepare all vegetables with uniform cutting for consistent flavor in every bite. Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber and bell peppers into half inch pieces, and slice red onion thinly. The size matters for both presentation and ensuring you get multiple flavors in each forkful. For the herbs, chop them just before adding to preserve their volatile oils and aromatics.

Assembly:

Combine all vegetables, olives, herbs and feta in a large bowl first to ensure even distribution. Then add the cooled pasta and toss gently with tongs or salad servers. The order matters here as it prevents the pasta from breaking while ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

Dressing Creation:

Whisk the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano and seasonings vigorously until emulsified. This creates a cohesive dressing rather than separate oil and vinegar components. Pour over the salad while gently tossing to coat every strand of spaghetti and vegetable piece evenly.

Flavor Development:

Allow the salad to chill for at least one hour before serving. This resting period is essential as it allows the pasta to absorb the dressing and the flavors to meld together. The salad actually improves with a few hours of refrigeration, making it perfect for advance preparation.

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The Kalamata olives are truly the secret weapon in this recipe. My grandmother who lived in Thessaloniki always insisted that a true Greek salad needed the distinct briny punch that only these purple beauties can provide. The first time I made this for my family, my son who claimed to hate olives ended up picking extras out of the serving bowl.

Make It Your Own

This Greek spaghetti salad welcomes personalization based on your preferences or what you have available in your pantry. Consider adding artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flavor, or toss in some chickpeas for additional protein. Grilled zucchini or eggplant make wonderful additions in summer when these vegetables are plentiful. For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp. The key is maintaining the balance of fresh, tangy, and savory elements that make this dish special.

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Storage Solutions

This salad actually improves with time as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If making ahead for meal prep, consider reserving a portion of the dressing to refresh the salad before serving, as the pasta will absorb liquid during storage. The feta is best added just before serving if you're planning to store the salad for multiple days, as it can break down and become too soft over time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this vibrant pasta salad as a light main course with warm pita bread on the side, or as part of a Mediterranean mezze spread alongside hummus, tzatziki, and stuffed grape leaves. It pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like lamb kebabs or Greek chicken. For a refreshing beverage pairing, try it with a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko from Santorini or a light retsina for an authentic Greek experience. A simple squeeze of lemon over individual portions just before serving adds a bright finish.

Cultural Context

This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Greek pasta dishes like makaronia me domata (pasta with tomato sauce) but transforms it into a cold salad format perfect for modern lifestyles. The combination of ingredients reflects the Mediterranean diet's emphasis on fresh vegetables, olive oil, and herbs. While not strictly traditional, this adaptation captures the essence of Greek cooking philosophy where simple, quality ingredients are allowed to shine. In Greece, similar pasta salads might be enjoyed as part of a taverna meal or family gathering, especially during warm summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like linguine, fusilli, or penne to suit your preference.

→ How long can I store this dish?

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled for the best flavor.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the spaghetti with a gluten-free pasta of your choice.

→ What can I add for extra protein?

You can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to this salad to make it more filling and rich in protein.

→ Is it possible to prepare the dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish a day ahead and store it in the fridge to allow the flavors to develop even further.

→ What can I use as a substitute for Kalamata olives?

If you don't have Kalamata olives, you can use black olives or green olives as a substitute, though the flavor profile may vary slightly.